Implementation and outcomes of a community-based boccia program for older adults: a field report

Objective: This report aimed to describe the implementation and outcomes of a community-based boccia program for community-dwelling older adults. Patients and Methods: Nine older adults participated in a 60-minute session once a week consisting of 15 min of stretching and low-intensity resistance exercises, followed by a short rest period, approximately 5 min of throwing practice, and 35 min of boccia gameplay. Measurements were conducted at baseline and after an average of 10 months and included blood pressure, Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, Functional Reach Test (FRT), grip strength in both hands, pain assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS), and physical activity assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire short form (IPAQ-SF). Participant satisfaction was evaluated at the final assessment using the VAS. Statistical analyses were performed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, with the level of significance set at P<0.05. Results: Systolic blood pressure decreased significantly (P=0.007). The TUG test showed no significant improvement (P=0.066). No significant changes were observed in the FRT or grip strength in either hand. The IPAQ scores increased; however, owing to the large inter-individual variability, the change was not statistically significant. Satisfaction and perceived benefit scores were generally high, although exercise adherence at home was relatively low. Conclusion: Although improvements in physical function were limited, the program was feasible, safe, and associated with high participant satisfaction, suggesting its potential as a sustainable community-based health-promotion intervention.